Bangladesh Eyes US as Alternative LNG Source Amid Fuel Supply Concerns

As Bangladesh faces fuel supply issues, it explores procuring LNG from the US due to an existing agreement. Despite panic over fuel shortages, a leader in the fuel sector insists that the situation is manageable, with current production covering most domestic needs and imports addressing other demands.

Amidst prevailing fuel concerns in Bangladesh, the country is considering sourcing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States if supplies from Qatar falter. Bangladesh, which relies on Qatari LNG imports, has an agreement with the US, enabling the switch if necessary, even at potentially higher costs, according to industry expert Farhan Noor.

Noor, Secretary General of the Bangladesh CNG Filling Station & Conversion Workshop Owners Association, highlighted the public's anxiety fueled by reports of a crisis. He noted that Bangladesh produces the majority of its petroleum and octane locally but acknowledged the impact of alarming statements from officials, which have led to unnecessary panic buying by the populace.

The rush to fill up tanks prompted government-imposed rationing, further escalating fears despite stable urban fuel supplies. Noor remains optimistic, predicting a return to normal within days, while reiterating that imports, especially of diesel, continue to supplement domestic production effectively.